“Yesterday is gone. Tomorrow has not yet come. We have only today. Let us begin.” – Mother Teresa.
Time is our most valuable resource, because whether we like it or not, there is no way to get more of it. We all understand that time simply marches on, regardless how much we might like to stop.
So, while we can’t create more time, one of the things each of us can control is in how we spend it. In other words, making sure you are doing the things that really matter when it comes to getting you to where you want to go.
Here are a couple of tips, to help make sure you get the most out of the time you have:
- Set goals – When you know what you want, it is easier to ensure you spend your time effectively. Goals assist you by putting into place a criterion from which you can evaluate options. For example, if you are wanting to run a marathon, then when it comes to deciding whether you are going to sit in front of the television or whether you are going to train. The goal will assist you in making that decision.
- Take time to plan your day – Get purposeful in setting out a plan for yourself, each and every day, to identify where you are going to spend your time. By planning ahead, it helps to ensure you don’t get caught in those moments when you simply don’t know what to do.
- Remember there are always 1,440 minutes in each day – They do not vary from day to day. If you understand that, you can map out a plan for using them wisely. Appreciate and accept, some of these minutes will be used systematically day-in and day-out for essential tasks (work, calls, paperwork), others for personal needs (exercise, relaxation, cleaning the house), and yet others to service physical requirements (eating or sleeping). It is how you use the remaining minutes that makes the difference in your overall well-being.
- Tackle top priorities first – They may not be the most pleasant, however they are the most important, so engage them when you are the most physically rested and mentally alert.
- Stay focused – Don’t get distracted by everything shiny around you. Constantly remind yourself of the task you are working on at hand. Remember, you are only able to really focus on one thing at a time and the more distracted you are, the more inefficient and the more time it will take to get something done.
- Don’t be afraid to let others do things for you – Look at your “to do” list and rather than asking yourself “How do I get this task completed?” ask instead, “How can this task be completed?” It’s a simple change of thinking, and it takes the burden off your shoulders of having to complete every task yourself. Look for help, it’s out there.
“You can have it all. Just not all at once.” – Oprah Winfrey.Implementing even a few of these tips, will help you to make the most out of your time.